Transform Pakistan's under-resourced Girls Schools

In the vibrant tapestry of our educational journey, the months unfolded with an array of enriching experiences, spanning across our adopted schools SMB Fatima Jinnah Government Girls School and Khatoon-e-Pakistan Government Girls School.

As fall hues embraced our campuses, the spirit of learning continued to thrive. Teachers' Day Celebration brought students and teachers together in a harmonious celebration of knowledge, wisdom, and mentorship.

Speaking of teachers, a captivating session on Professional Development Day lit up the event, igniting a spark of passion for STEM in the hearts of Math, Science, and IT teachers. In the same month, a Shakeout Drill Training by Agha Khan Development Network equipped our faculty with essential skills.

Now, realizing that all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy, Right to Play orchestrated a Sports Day at SMB Fatima Jinnah Government Girls School. The event aimed to instill confidence and camaraderie through the joy of sports and play.

Recognizing the importance of mental health alongside physical well-being, Zindagi Trust collaborated with House of Pebbles to organize mental health sessions in October and November. These sessions were designed to nurture the well-being of our students, emphasizing the crucial role of mental wellness in holistic development.

In the realm of holistic learning, three Grade 9 students showcased their brilliance in the Bait Bazi Competition at the HHS School System Literature Festival.

The month of November ushered in new horizons of exploration. Students embarked on a captivating journey at TDF Magnifiscience, delving into the wonders of science and technology. In the same month, students, guided by the talented artist Maliha Abidi, explored Virtual Reality through BackpackX, learning about Climate Change and its intricacies.

In celebration of the sacred month of Rabi-ul-Awal, the schools held a heartfelt Mehfil-i Milad. Students and teachers gathered in unity to commemorate the teachings of the Prophet. The event not only deepened the spiritual connection but also reflected our commitment to nurturing a holistic environment that embraces both academic and moral development.

The month took an eventful and athletic turn as the SMB Fatima Jinnah Government Girls School Junior Football Team triumphed in the U-14 Futsal Tournament, seizing the championship crown in November by 2-0. Meanwhile, the Japan Culture Festival immersed our students in the rich traditions of Japan, fostering cultural exchange and understanding.

Continuing the festivities of the month, to celebrate two decades of our collaboration, Zindagi Trust and Aahung organized an "open house" event at Khatoon-e-Pakistan Government Girls School. The event was organized to spread awareness about our Life Skills Based Education (LSBE) program, an initiative that enlightens students about their bodies, health, and overall well-being within a secure environment.

December ushered in a celebration of Sindhi Culture Day where students dressed up in colorful dresses and the school came alive with vibrant hues and cultural beats as students embraced Sindhi traditions. Students also took part in speeches and folk dances, turning the day into a cultural fiesta.

In the same month, Aga Khan University invited our students for their theatre show “Achay Bachay”, a theatrical production aimed at highlighting the dangers of tobacco, promoting a smoke-free life, and fostering healthy choices among young students.

Before the end of the year, a Number Mania was organized at Khatoon-e-Pakistan Government Girls School where our mathletes showcased brilliance in mental calculations.

As winter cast its spell in December, 10 international participants from the Global Encounter Program started a 6-day Winter Camp on December 21st, engaging the students in diverse activities, including graphic designing, kitchen gardening, music, chess, sports, pictionary, and reflections and discussions on social issues.

A student shared, “The camp was really fun! We learned a lot and even taught Urdu sentences and songs to the international participants. It was a great experience!” The students thoroughly enjoyed the winter camp, making it a memorable experience for everyone involved.

At Zindagi Trust, we prioritize student engagement and holistic development. With the dawn of the new year, Inter House Chess and Scrabble Tournaments brought our students together in the spirit of healthy competition. The 1st KPT Karachi Open Chess Championship 2024 added another feather to our sporting endeavors.

In the month of January, we organized our Annual Sports Day, catering to students from Grades 3 to 5, followed by a sports day for Grades 6 to 10 at our schools. Additionally, we celebrated English Literature Day 2024 on January 27th for Grade 3 to 8 students, where they actively participated in various literary activities. Another notable event was the roleplay activity by ECE I students based on the story "Mein Moor lene Empress Market ja rahi hun." These initiatives aim to foster creativity, teamwork, and a love for learning beyond the confines of traditional classrooms.

In collaboration with the Institute of Professional Psychology at Bahria University, Khatoon-e-Pakistan Government Girls School hosted a Mental Health Awareness Camp. Esteemed professionals conducted personality assessments, counseling sessions, and discussions on emotional resilience, and coping strategies, leaving an indelible impact on our school community.

At Zindagi Trust, we recognize the importance of the ongoing professional growth of teachers. SMB Fatima Jinnah Government Girls School hosted an interactive session, led by the PD team and management, on the professional development of teachers. The focus was on fostering professional growth by emphasizing interactive classroom observations, skill enhancement, collaboration, and team-building for all teachers.

As the pages turn in our educational odyssey, we remain steadfast in our commitment to nurturing holistic development and academic excellence. Your continued support fuels our journey towards creating a brighter future for our students. Stay engaged for more exciting updates from Zindagi Trust and its vibrant community of learners.